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Schedule & Ticket Prices for top routes in Japan

19Jun

Seats

Tokyo

Kyoto

Each ticket has information about

Departure Time

Travel time

Arrival Time

Changes

Brand name / Train type

Ticket price

Morning trains

06:00

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 8m

08:08

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 1

from

10492 USD

2h 8m, Direct

06:00

TokyoTokyo Station

08:08

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 1

06:15

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 9m

08:24

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 3

from

10492 USD

2h 9m, Direct

06:15

TokyoTokyo Station

08:24

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 3

Day trains

12:00

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 15m

14:15

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 257

from

10492 USD

2h 15m, Direct

12:00

TokyoTokyo Station

14:15

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 257

12:03

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 34m

14:37

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

Hikari 711

from

10492 USD

2h 34m, Direct

12:03

TokyoTokyo Station

14:37

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

Hikari 711

Evening trains

18:00

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 15m

20:15

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 207

from

10492 USD

2h 15m, Direct

18:00

TokyoTokyo Station

20:15

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

High-speed

Nozomi 207

18:03

TokyoTokyo Station

2h 51m

20:54

KyotoKyoto Station

Direct

Hikari 655

from

10492 USD

2h 51m, Direct

18:03

TokyoTokyo Station

20:54

KyotoKyoto Station

from

10492 USD

Direct

Hikari 655

First train

06:00

Last train

21:24

Travel duration

2h 21m

Daily departures

101

Departure station

Tokyo

Changes

direct

Arrival station

Kyoto

Ticket price

from $84

Fastest trip

2h 7m

Longest trip

3h 37m

Top Routes in Japan

Main Japanese rail corridors The Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka corridor is Japan's busiest intercity rail market, with Nozomi Shinkansen trains taking about 2 hours 15 minutes from Tokyo to Kyoto and 2 hours 22 minutes to Shin-Osaka. Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima takes about 1 hour 20 minutes on the Sanyo Shinkansen, while Shin-Osaka to Hakata takes about 2 hours 28 minutes. Tokyo to Kanazawa on the Hokuriku Shinkansen takes about 2 hours 30 minutes. Tokyo to Sendai takes about 1 hour 30 minutes on the Tohoku Shinkansen, and Tokyo to Niigata takes about 2 hours on the Joetsu Shinkansen.

Tokyo to Kyoto

Travel from Tokyo to Kyoto by Shinkansen and visit Kinkaku-ji, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the Gion district

Frequency

101 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Nozomi

Tokyo

Japan

2h 21m

Kyoto

Japan

Tokyo to Osaka

Travel from Tokyo to Osaka by Shinkansen and visit Universal Studios Japan or explore the streets of Namba and Dotonbori

Frequency

99 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Nozomi

Tokyo

Japan

2h 36m

Osaka

Japan

Osaka to Kyoto

Travel from Osaka to Kyoto by train and visit Fushimi Inari Shrine, Kiyomizu-dera, and the historic Gion district near Kyoto Station

Frequency

100 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Narita Express,Nozomi

Osaka

Japan

13m

Kyoto

Japan

Tokyo to Fuji

Travel from Tokyo to Fuji by limited express or local train and visit the Fuji Five Lakes, Fujinomiya Sengen Shrine, and the Subashiri trailhead

Frequency

18 times per day

Popular Trains

Kodama

Tokyo

Japan

1h 3m

Fuji

Japan

Osaka to Hiroshima

Travel from Osaka to Hiroshima by Shinkansen and visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and Miyajima Island near Itsukushima Shrine

Frequency

60 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Nozomi,Sakura

Osaka

Japan

1h 32m

Hiroshima

Japan

Tokyo to Hiroshima

Travel from Tokyo to Hiroshima by Shinkansen and visit the Peace Memorial Park, Miyajima Island and Hiroshima Castle

Frequency

36 times per day

Popular Trains

Nozomi

Tokyo

Japan

3h 53m

Hiroshima

Japan

Tokyo to Nagano

Travel from Tokyo to Nagano by limited express or Shinkansen connections and visit Zenko-ji Temple or the Jigokudani Snow Monkey Park

Frequency

34 times per day

Popular Trains

Asama,Hakutaka,Kagayaki

Tokyo

Japan

1h 32m

Nagano

Japan

Tokyo to Nagoya

Travel from Tokyo to Nagoya by Shinkansen and visit Nagoya Castle or the SCMAGLEV and Railway Park near Kanayama

Frequency

95 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Nozomi

Tokyo

Japan

1h 45m

Nagoya

Japan

Kyoto to Hiroshima

Travel from Kyoto to Hiroshima by Shinkansen and visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, Peace Memorial Park, or Miyajima island with Itsukushima Shrine

Frequency

39 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Nozomi

Kyoto

Japan

1h 40m

Hiroshima

Japan

Tokyo to Kanazawa

Travel from Tokyo to Kanazawa by Hokuriku Shinkansen and visit Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle, and the Higashi Chaya district

Frequency

22 times per day

Popular Trains

Hakutaka,Kagayaki

Tokyo

Japan

2h 46m

Kanazawa

Japan

Odawara to Kyoto

Travel from Odawara to Kyoto by Shinkansen or limited express and visit Kiyomizu-dera, Fushimi Inari Shrine, and the historic Gion district

Frequency

11 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama

Odawara

Japan

2h 18m

Kyoto

Japan

Tokyo to Narita

Travel from Tokyo to Narita by Narita Express or rapid airport train to reach Narita Airport Terminal 1, Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, and the nearby historic Naritasan Omotesando street

Frequency

51 times per day

Popular Trains

Narita Express

Tokyo

Japan

56m

Narita

Japan

Tokyo to Odawara

Travel from Tokyo to Odawara by train and access Odawara Castle, the Hakone area, and local onsen resorts near Hakone-Yumoto.

Frequency

24 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Narita Express

Tokyo

Japan

33m

Odawara

Japan

Shinagawa to Kyoto

Travel from Shinagawa to Kyoto by Shinkansen and step off near Fushimi Inari Shrine or visit Kiyomizu-dera and Gion in Kyoto

Frequency

86 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Nozomi

Shinagawa

Japan

2h 14m

Kyoto

Japan

Tokyo to Yokohama

Travel from Tokyo to Yokohama by local and rapid trains and visit Minato Mirai, Cup Noodles Museum, and the Chinatown district

Frequency

110 times per day

Popular Trains

Hikari,Kodama,Narita Express,Nozomi

Tokyo

Japan

19m

Yokohama

Japan

Your Complete Guide to Shinkansen Train Travel in Japan

Japan's rail network is led by the JR Group, including JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Kyushu, JR Shikoku, and JR Hokkaido. The Tokaido Shinkansen is the core intercity route, carrying passengers between Tokyo, Shinagawa, Nagoya, Kyoto, and Shin-Osaka in large numbers every day. Nozomi trains cover Tokyo to Shin-Osaka in about 2 hours 22 minutes, while Hikari and Kodama services add more stops. Other Shinkansen routes reach Kanazawa, Niigata, Sendai, Aomori, Hakata, Nagasaki, and Kagoshima-Chuo. Private railways also matter in Japan, especially around Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka. Kintetsu links Osaka-Namba, Kyoto, Nara, Nagoya, and Ise-Shima with limited express trains. Odakyu runs Romancecar services from Shinjuku to Hakone-Yumoto in about 80 minutes. Tobu Railway links Asakusa with Nikko and Kinugawa Onsen. Airport rail is part of daily travel too, with Narita Express, Keisei Skyliner, Tokyo Monorail, and the Kansai Airport Limited Express Haruka serving major terminals.

How to Buy Train Tickets in Japan

Booking Shinkansen tickets gives you fast, direct access to Japan’s most visited cities and attractions. Whether you want to experience Tokyo’s city life, Kyoto’s temples, or Osaka’s food scene, you can reserve your bullet train seat online for every major route.

Book Shinkansen and JR Tickets

Search Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and Hakata routes, then book available Shinkansen and JR limited express tickets.

Pay Online for Japan Routes

Use major credit and debit cards or supported digital payment methods to complete payment for selected Japan train tickets.

Book Busy Routes Early

Reserved seats often open about 1 month before departure. Golden Week, Obon, and New Year trains sell fastest.

24/7 Multilingual Support

Rail Monsters provides real human help in English and other languages for Japan bookings, changes, refunds, and route questions.

Domestic Rail Coverage

Find tickets on main domestic routes, including Shinkansen corridors and limited express services to regional cities and resort areas.

Digital Ticket Confirmation

Receive booking details by email after purchase. Some Japan tickets require station collection or exchange before boarding.

Book Shinkansen and JR Tickets

Search Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Kanazawa, and Hakata routes, then book available Shinkansen and JR limited express tickets.

Pay Online for Japan Routes

Use major credit and debit cards or supported digital payment methods to complete payment for selected Japan train tickets.

Book Busy Routes Early

Reserved seats often open about 1 month before departure. Golden Week, Obon, and New Year trains sell fastest.

24/7 Multilingual Support

Rail Monsters provides real human help in English and other languages for Japan bookings, changes, refunds, and route questions.

Domestic Rail Coverage

Find tickets on main domestic routes, including Shinkansen corridors and limited express services to regional cities and resort areas.

Digital Ticket Confirmation

Receive booking details by email after purchase. Some Japan tickets require station collection or exchange before boarding.

Japan Railway Network Map

Japan's rail map follows the main island chain from Hokkaido to Kyushu. The Tokaido, Sanyo, and Kyushu Shinkansen form a continuous high-speed spine from Tokyo to Kagoshima-Chuo via Shin-Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakata, and Kumamoto. The Tohoku Shinkansen runs north from Tokyo to Shin-Aomori, with branches to Akita and Yamagata. Hokuriku Shinkansen links Tokyo, Nagano, Toyama, Kanazawa, and Tsuruga.

Japan Shinkansen trains Classes and Tickets Information

from

$6083

Gran Class

from

$3112

Green Car

from

$1027

Non-reserved

from

$2386

Ordinary Car

How to buy Shinkansen train tickets in Japan

On Rail Monsters, search Japan routes by origin, destination, and date. Compare available Shinkansen options by time and price. Choose reserved or non-reserved seating where offered, and select Ordinary Class, Green Car, or Gran Class when available. Complete payment online and check the ticket instructions sent by email. Many Japan bookings use digital confirmation, but some tickets require pickup, exchange, or use of a QR code at a designated station machine or counter.

How to buy train tickets in Japan

Ticket office on station

Rail Monsters mobile app

Rail Monsters website

Practical Information for Japan trains travelers

Practical Information for Asama Travelers

Luggage Guidelines on Asama Trains. When embarking on a journey with the Asama Shinkansen, convenience is key, especially regarding luggage management. Here’s what you should keep in mind to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Luggage Allowance

On the Asama, passengers can take up to two pieces of luggage, with each piece not exceeding 250 cm in total dimensions (width + height + depth) and a weight limit of 30 kg per item. This generous allowance means you can pack everything you’ll need for your trip without worries.

Storage Facilities

Asama trains are outfitted with ample overhead compartments for smaller bags and dedicated luggage areas located at the end of each carriage. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to keep your luggage secure and easily accessible during your journey.

Special Items

For those traveling with oversized items such as bicycles, skis, or larger sports gear, it's important to plan ahead. While the Asama does allow these items under certain conditions, availability for such luggage can be limited, so arriving early is recommended to ensure a suitable spot.

Payment Information

Rail Monsters accepts major credit and debit cards plus supported online payment methods for Japan train tickets. Prices may display in your selected currency, with Japanese yen used as the underlying rail fare on many routes. After payment, Rail Monsters sends tickets with QR by email and in the mobile apps. For Shinkansen routes such as Tokyo to Kyoto or Shin-Osaka to Hiroshima, review the collection or boarding details before travel. Bring the same passenger names and any required ID if the ticket instructions request it.

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Local Guide

Wonderful trip from Tokyo to Kyoto. Excellent service.

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Very kind and helpful staff

Very kind and helpful staff who were very diligent and thorough in helping secure tickets for a sold out train. Thank you so much!

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FAQ and Facts About Trains in Japan

Who operates trains in Japan?

Japan's main passenger rail network is operated by the JR Group: JR East, JR Central, JR West, JR Kyushu, JR Shikoku, and JR Hokkaido. JR Central runs the Tokaido Shinkansen between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka, while JR West operates the Sanyo Shinkansen to Hakata. JR East covers Tokyo, Sendai, Niigata, and much of northern Honshu. Private railways such as Kintetsu, Tobu, Odakyu, Keisei, and Nankai operate important intercity, airport, and regional routes.

How do I book Japan train tickets through Rail Monsters?

Enter your origin, destination, and travel date on Rail Monsters, then compare available Japan train options by departure time, travel time, and class. Choose a Shinkansen, JR limited express, or supported private railway service where available. Select ordinary or Green Car seats when offered, then pay online. Booking details arrive by email after purchase. Some Japan routes use electronic tickets, while others require station pickup or exchange before boarding.

Are trains in Japan reliable?

Japanese trains are known for strict timetable operation, especially on the Shinkansen network. JR Central's Tokaido Shinkansen runs between Tokyo and Shin-Osaka with very frequent departures, often only a few minutes apart during busy periods. Weather can still affect service, particularly typhoons, heavy snow in northern regions, and earthquakes. Major stations such as Tokyo Station, Kyoto Station, and Shin-Osaka Station display live platform and delay information in English and Japanese.

How long is the train from Tokyo to Kyoto?

The fastest Nozomi Shinkansen trains run from Tokyo Station to Kyoto Station in about 2 hours 15 minutes. Hikari services usually take around 2 hours 40 minutes, and Kodama trains take close to 3 hours 40 minutes because they stop more often. The route uses the Tokaido Shinkansen, operated by JR Central. Trains also stop at Shinagawa and Nagoya on many departures, giving several boarding options in the Tokyo area.

What ticket classes are available on Shinkansen trains?

Most Shinkansen trains offer Ordinary Class with reserved and non-reserved seating, plus Green Car first-class seating on many routes. Some services, including selected Tohoku, Hokkaido, Joetsu, and Hokuriku Shinkansen trains, also offer Gran Class. Japan has several rail passes, including the Japan Rail Pass sold through official JR channels; Rail Monsters sells individual train tickets, not passes. Individual tickets work well for fixed routes such as Tokyo to Kyoto, Osaka to Hiroshima, or Tokyo to Kanazawa.

Why take the train instead of flying or driving in Japan?

Japan's main rail stations sit in city centers, so the Shinkansen often beats flying on door-to-door time. Tokyo to Osaka takes about 2 hours 22 minutes by Nozomi from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station. A flight is shorter in the air, but access to Haneda or Itami, security, boarding, and baggage time add up. Rail also avoids expressway tolls and parking costs on routes such as Tokyo to Nagoya or Kyoto to Hiroshima.

Can I reach Mount Fuji by train in Japan?

Yes. The Fuji Excursion limited express links Shinjuku Station with Kawaguchiko Station near Mount Fuji in about 1 hour 50 minutes on selected direct services. Another common route uses the JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku to Otsuki, then the Fujikyu Railway to Kawaguchiko. From the Tokaido Shinkansen, Shin-Fuji Station also serves the southern side of Mount Fuji, with local bus connections to nearby viewing areas and trail access points.

Why should I book Japan train tickets in advance?

Advance booking matters on Japan's busiest dates and routes. Reserved seats on JR trains usually open about 1 month before departure, and popular Shinkansen services fill quickly during Golden Week, Obon in August, and the New Year holiday period. Tokyo to Kyoto, Tokyo to Shin-Osaka, Osaka to Hiroshima, and Tokyo to Kanazawa see high demand. Booking early gives more choice of departure time, seat class, and adjacent seats for groups.

Learn more information at our

Country Guide

Main Train Types in Japan

Shinkansen is Japan's high-speed train system, with Nozomi, Hikari, Kodama, Mizuho, Sakura, Hayabusa, Yamabiko, Kagayaki, and Toki services on different lines. Speeds reach 320 km/h on parts of the Tohoku Shinkansen and 285 km/h on the Tokaido Shinkansen. JR limited express trains cover routes without Shinkansen, including Narita Express, Haruka, Azusa, Thunderbird, and Yakumo. Private limited express trains include Kintetsu Hinotori, Odakyu Romancecar, Tobu Spacia X, and Keisei Skyliner. Rapid and local trains handle shorter trips in every region.